What is the Best Way to Eat Escarole?

When it comes to incorporating leafy greens into your diet, escarole stands out as a versatile option that many overlook. But what is the best way to eat escarole to enjoy its unique flavor and health benefits fully? Its slightly bitter taste may seem intimidating initially, but escarole can be transformed into various delicious dishes with the right preparation methods. Whether you prefer it raw in salads, sautéed with garlic, or simmered in a comforting soup, finding the best way to enjoy escarole can elevate your meals and boost your everyday diet.

What is Escarole?

Escarole is a member of the chicory family, closely related to frisée and endive. Its broad, curly leaves range from dark green on the outside to a lighter, more tender shade towards the core. Escarole is often mistaken for lettuce, but its robust flavor sets it apart from other greens.

This green contains vitamins A, K, and folate, along with dietary fiber that supports digestion and overall health. Its bitterness varies depending on how it’s prepared, making it an exciting addition to both cooked and raw dishes.

Preparing Escarole for Cooking

Before diving into the cooking methods, preparing escarole is essential to ensure the best taste and texture.

Choosing Fresh Esca-role: Look for heads of escarole with crisp, firm leaves that are vibrant green without any signs of wilting or browning.
Cleaning: The dense leaves can trap dirt, so thoroughly wash them before use. Separate the leaves, soak them in a large water bowl, and gently agitate to remove any soil. Rinse under cold water and dry with a clean towel or salad spinner.
Chopping: Cut off the core at the bottom and roughly chop the leaves into bite-sized pieces, depending on the recipe.

Now that we have fresh, clean escarole, let’s explore delicious ways to prepare it.

The Best Ways to Eat Escarole

1. Raw in Salads

Escarole can be eaten raw, making it an excellent addition to salads. Its slightly bitter flavor pairs well with sweet and tangy ingredients, creating a delightful balance.

Salad Ideas: Mix chopped escarole with sweet fruits like apples, pears, or peaches, and toss in some nuts (walnuts or pecans) for crunch. Sprinkle Parmesan or blue cheese to enhance the flavor.
Dressings: Escarole’s bitterness pairs wonderfully with vinaigrettes, especially those with citrus or honey. A simple dressing made with olive oil, lemon juice, salt, and pepper can bring out its best qualities.
Recipe Example: Combine escarole, thinly sliced apples, toasted walnuts, and a sprinkle of blue cheese. Drizzle with a lemon-honey vinaigrette for a refreshing, crunchy salad.

2. Sautéed with Garlic and Olive Oil

One of the most popular ways to prepare escarole is by sautéing it with garlic and olive oil. This method mellows out its bitterness, transforming it into a delicious side dish.

Cooking Instructions:
1. Heat a few tablespoons of olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat.
2. Add 2-3 minced garlic cloves and sauté until fragrant, about 1 minute.
3. Add the chopped escarole to the pan and stir to coat with the oil and garlic.
4. Cook for about 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the escarole is wilted and tender.
5. Season with salt, pepper, and red pepper flakes for a bit of heat.
6. Finish with a splash of lemon juice to brighten the flavors.
Serving Suggestions: Sautéed escarole is a versatile side dish that pairs well with grilled meats, fish, or even as a topping for toasted bread. It can also be mixed into pasta for a quick and satisfying meal.

3. In Soups

Adding esca-role to soups is another classic way to enjoy its unique flavor. It is commonly used in Italian recipes, such as Italian Wedding Soup, whose tender texture perfectly complements the other ingredients.

Popular Soups:
- Escarole and White Bean Soup: The bitterness of escarole pairs beautifully with the creaminess of white beans.
- Italian Wedding Soup: Traditionally made with meatballs, broth, and escarole.
Recipe Example:
- Escarole and White Bean Soup:
  1. In a large pot, sauté garlic and onions in olive oil until soft.
  2. Add vegetable or chicken broth, canned white beans (drained and rinsed), and chopped escarole.
  3. Simmer for 10-15 minutes until the escarole is tender.
  4. Season with salt, pepper, and a pinch of red pepper flakes. Serve hot with a drizzle of olive oil on top.
Tips: Add esca-role towards the end of the soup’s cooking process to retain its texture and flavor. This prevents it from becoming overly soft and mushy.

4. Braised or Grilled Escarole

If you’re looking for a different way to enjoy this leafy green, try braising or grilling it. Both methods soften the leaves and enhance their flavor.

Braised Escarole:
- Instructions:
  1. In a large pan, heat olive oil and add garlic and onion. Cook until softened.
  2. Add chopped escarole and a splash of broth or water.
  3. Cover and simmer on low heat for about 10 minutes, until the escarole is tender.
  4. Season with salt, pepper, and a squeeze of lemon juice before serving.
Grilled Escarole:
- Instructions:
  1. Cut the escarole head in half lengthwise.
  2. Brush with olive oil and season with salt and pepper.
  3. Grill over medium heat for 3-4 minutes on each side, until charred and slightly wilted.
  4. Serve with a drizzle of balsamic vinegar or grated cheese.

5. Adding to Pasta and Other Dishes

Escarole can also be mixed into various dishes to add a burst of flavor and texture.

Pasta: For a quick and nutritious meal, add sautéed escarole to pasta along with garlic, red pepper flakes, and grated Parmesan.
Casseroles and Stir-fries: Use escarole as a base in casseroles or stir-fries for a unique twist on your favorite recipes.
Pizza Topping: For an unconventional but tasty option, add sautéed escarole, mushrooms, and mozzarella to a pizza.

Tips for Pairing Escarole with Other Ingredients

Balancing Bitterness: Pair escarole with ingredients that offset its bitterness, such as:
- Sweet: Fruits (apples, pears), honey, or dried cranberries.
- Salty: Cheese (Parmesan, blue cheese), anchovies.
- Acidic: Vinegars (balsamic, apple cider), lemon juice.
Complementary Ingredients:
- Garlic, olive oil, beans, bacon, and citrus fruits are excellent companions for escarole dishes.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. What is the difference between escarole and spinach?

Escarole and spinach are both leafy greens, but they differ in flavor and texture. it has a slightly bitter taste and a sturdier texture, while spinach is milder and more tender.

2. Can you eat escarole raw?

Yes, you can eat escarole raw. It’s often used in salads, where its crunch and bitterness add depth to the dish.

3. How do you remove the bitterness from escarole?

To reduce the bitterness of esca-role, you can blanch it in boiling water for a few minutes before cooking. Alternatively, sautéing it with garlic or pairing it with sweet or acidic ingredients helps to mellow its flavor.

4. How do you store escarole?

Store unwashed it in the refrigerator, wrapped in a damp paper towel, and placed in a plastic bag. This method helps keep it fresh for up to a week.

5. Is escarole good for weight loss?

Yes, it is low in calories and high in fiber, making it an excellent addition to a weight-loss-friendly diet. Its fiber content helps promote satiety, reducing the likelihood of overeating.

Conclusion

So, what is the best way to eat escarole? The answer depends on your taste preferences and how you like incorporating greens into your meals. From raw salads to savory sautés and hearty soups, escarole’s versatility makes it a fantastic addition to various dishes. The slightly bitter flavor of this leafy green can be balanced with sweet, salty, or tangy ingredients, allowing you to experiment and find your favorite way to enjoy it.

For even more ideas on how to use escarole in your cooking, take a look at EatingWell’s comprehensive guide. Their insights provide great inspiration for trying out new recipes and learning about escarole’s unique characteristics.

If you’re seeking more recipe inspiration, our recipe collection features a variety of delicious ways to prepare greens like escarole. Whether you’re looking for quick and simple sautéed dishes or more elaborate meals, you’ll find options that fit your taste.

Exploring the best ways to eat escarole enhances your culinary skills and provides a nutritious boost to your daily diet. So, don’t hesitate to try escarole in different forms and make it a regular part of your meals!